President John Dramani Mahama has announced the approval of a new government policy aimed at ending Ghana’s long-standing dependence on rented premises for its diplomatic missions abroad.
The policy, dubbed the Strategic Transition from Rental to Development of Properties, was approved by Cabinet to ensure that Ghana’s missions operate from state-owned facilities rather than costly rentals.
Speaking at the swearing-in of 18 newly appointed Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Protocol officials at the Jubilee House in Accra on Thursday, September 4, President Mahama described the current practice as “unsustainable and wasteful.”
He revealed that a transaction advisor has already been appointed, designs for standard facilities are being prepared, and funding mechanisms are under negotiation.
The President directed the Ministers of Finance and Foreign Affairs to take urgent steps to implement the new policy, stressing that it will not only cut down unnecessary expenditure but also enhance Ghana’s international image by ensuring that its diplomatic missions operate from modern, purpose-built state-owned properties.
